Potomac Interceptor

A large number of fish deaths, or 'fish kill,' have occurred in the Potomac River following a heat wave. Scientists attribute the event to a 'summer turnover' caused by mixing water layers reducing oxygen levels. Authorities confirmed no chemical spill or pollution and noted most fish deaths near Sycamore Island, upstream of a prior sewage incident.

DC Water has initiated emergency repairs on a corroded 1,700-foot section of the Potomac Interceptor sewer line near Lock 22 on the C&O Canal in Maryland. A spill at this location could threaten the drinking water intakes for WSSC Water and Washington Aqueduct, though Fairfax Water’s intake would remain unaffected. Crews are installing a temporary bypass system while the compromised pipe is replaced, with work expected to last through September.

DC Water is initiating emergency repairs on a deteriorating section of the Potomac Interceptor sewer line in Potomac, Maryland, to protect drinking water intakes for WSSC Water and the Washington Aqueduct. Inspections revealed structural issues like corrosion and exposed rebar, prompting immediate action. Repairs, starting June 15, 2026, will include building an above-ground bypass pipeline and monitoring equipment, with construction expected to continue until September 2026.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) filed a civil complaint against the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority (DC Water) over a sewage spill in the Potomac River, labeled the largest wastewater spill in U.S. history. The spill resulted from the collapse of the Potomac Interceptor along the Clara...